Have you ever noticed that the best burgers tend to come from the most unassuming of places?
It’s true!
And we think we’ve found some of the best burgers in the whole of Texas!
This historic burger joint is one of the oldest in the state and has been serving up delicious burgers since 1926.
Yep, the burgers here are so good that people used to flock here before it even had proper floors!
Tradition, history and real good food are what make it stand out.
This beloved Austin landmark is well worth a visit if you love hearty burgers and thick milkshakes.
Join us as we explore the charm of Dirty Martin’s Place…
Table of Contents
About Dirty Martin’s Place
Dirty Martin’s Place is more than just a restaurant.
It’s a living piece of Austin’s history.
Also known as Martin’s KumBak, this cozy spot has been serving up delicious burgers and shakes since the roaring twenties.
Here’s the exact address: 2808 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705
Its name, “Dirty Martin’s,” comes from its humble beginnings – back when the floors were just dirt and the burgers were so good that people didn’t mind a bit of grit.
Located near the University of Texas campus, Dirty Martin’s has been a favorite hangout for students, locals and visitors for almost a century.
The atmosphere is super laid-back and friendly so it’s the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or family.
The menu keeps things simple but satisfying. It focuses on classic American comfort food that makes you feel right at home.
At Dirty Martin’s, expect to find hearty, juicy burgers cooked to perfection, crispy fries and thick milkshakes that are the talk of the town.
It’s a place where every visit is a warm reminder of the good old days.
The Food
When you step into Dirty Martin’s Place, you’re in for a real treat.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the burgers which are so good they’ve even won awards.
These aren’t your ordinary burgers – they’re a blend of tradition and taste that have been perfected over decades.
Each patty is thick and juicy, served on a soft bun with all the classic toppings you could wish for – mustard, tomato, onions and pickles.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can add extras like cheese, bacon or even jalapeños to kick things up a notch.
Aside from the famous burgers, Dirty Martin’s also serves up a variety of other mouthwatering dishes.
Their crispy fries are a must-try! They’re golden and perfect for dipping into ketchup.
For those looking for something a bit different, the handmade onion rings are a crunchy, delicious alternative.
No meal at Dirty Martin’s is complete without trying their legendary milkshakes.
Thick, creamy and available in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, these shakes are the perfect way to cool down on a hot Texas day.
Whether you’re there for a quick lunch, a dinner with friends or a late-night snack, the food at Dirty Martin’s Place promises to be comforting and delicious.
History
Dirty Martin’s Place, also known as Martin’s KumBak, has been a cherished part of Austin since 1926.
It was founded by John Martin, who started with a simple dream of serving tasty burgers to the local community.
The restaurant’s nickname, “Dirty Martin’s”, came from its original setup, where the floor was just a dirt patch, yet it didn’t deter hungry customers from flocking to the burger stand.
In fact, it didn’t get a proper floor until the 1950s!
Over the years, Dirty Martin’s has witnessed the changing landscapes and eras of Austin, from the quiet college town days to the bustling urban center it is today.
Despite all of these changes as well as changes in ownership, the restaurant has managed to keep its old-school charm and appeal.
It’s like stepping back in time when you walk through the doors.
It really is a place where simplicity and good food speak louder than modern gimmicks.
As it’s located near the University of Texas, Dirty Martin’s has become a hotspot for students and faculty.
The restaurant has seen countless students come and go, becoming a part of their college memories and stories.
Throughout its nearly a century-long history, Dirty Martin’s has remained true to its roots.
The restaurant has withstood the test of time, maintaining its reputation for no-frills, quality food.
Even as new dishes were added and the original dirt floor was replaced, the essence of what made Dirty Martin’s a beloved spot has stayed the same.
It’s a beloved part of Austin’s history and has even seen weddings, funerals, birthday parties and graduations.
Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a visit to Dirty Martin’s Place, here are some important things to know to make your trip smooth and enjoyable:
Hours of Operation
Dirty Martin’s is open every day, making it easy to stop by whenever you’re craving a burger.
They open their doors every day at 11AM.
From Sunday to Wednesday, they close at 9PM.
From Thursday to Saturday, they close at 10PM so you can come by for lunch, dinner or a late-night snack.
Prices
Expect affordable prices that are easy on your wallet.
Burgers start at around $7 and you can enjoy a full meal with fries and a drink for about $17.
Milkshakes are around $5 making them a sweet deal!
Parking
There is a parking lot available right next to Dirty Martin’s so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot on the street.
The parking is free, but it can fill up quickly during busy times, especially during the evening and on weekends.
Pet-Friendly
Feel free to bring your furry friends along!
Dirty Martin’s has outdoor seating where pets are welcome.
It’s a great spot to relax with your pet and enjoy a meal.
Seating
Dirty Martin’s offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
The indoor area has a classic diner feel and comes complete with vintage decorations.
The outdoor area is perfect for enjoying a sunny day.
Payment Options
They accept both cash and credit cards.
Remember, Dirty Martin’s is all about simplicity and tradition so don’t expect fancy tech or modern frills – just good, classic food in a friendly welcoming environment.
Save Dirty Martin’s Place
Dirty Martin’s Place, a beloved Austin landmark, is facing a tough challenge that might force it to close its doors for good.
A new development project in the area is threatening the future of this historic burger joint.
Project Connect is looking to add a new train line that would run right through Dirty Martin’s property, forcing them to close.
But there’s hope!
As fans and community members, we can help save this treasured spot.
Here’s what you can do to make a difference:
Sign the Petition
There is a petition circulating online that calls for preserving Dirty Martin’s Place and asks that Project Connect reroute their new train line.
Signing this petition shows that there is strong community support for keeping the restaurant open.
Support Them with Your Business
Another one of the best ways to help is by eating at Dirty Martin’s.
Visit for a meal, bring friends or even order takeout.
Showing that the business is thriving can make a strong case for keeping it around.
Spread the Word
Share the petition to save Dirty Martin’s on social media or with friends.
The more people know about what’s happening, the bigger the impact we can make.
Together, we can help ensure that Dirty Martin’s Place remains a part of Austin’s landscape and continues to serve up delicious burgers for generations to come.
Let’s stand by a place that has given so much to our community!
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